How to Change a DBA

A DBA, or "Doing Business As," is used when a company is doing business under a name other than its legal business name. By filling out the appropriate form, you can change the name that you are using for your DBA. This process is relatively easy to do, and can be accomplished on your own without the services of a lawyer.

Things You'll Need

• Business name change form

Instructions

1. Visit or contact the Secretary of State office in your state to get a business name change form. In some states the form is called "Amendment of Certificate of Assumed Business Name." Your Secretary of State office may have this form available on their website.

2. Ask the clerk at the Secretary of State office to run a search on your new DBA name to make sure the name is not already in use. If it is, you will need to use a backup name.

3. Fill out the business name change form. You need to enter in the current DBA name, when this name was put into use, what the new DBA name is and any changes to the business address or officers.

4. Send or deliver the form to the Secretary of State with the appropriate filing fee, which is listed on the form. The fee varies by state but is typically around $10.

References

• Consumate Compendium: Secretary of State Websites by State